Transelec and Copec Launch Groundbreaking BESS Project in Chile
Transelec and Copec to Launch 105 MW Energy Storage Project in Northern Chile
Last Thursday, Transelec, the electricity transmission operator in Chile, announced the completion of battery and conversion equipment purchases for a 105 MW energy storage project. The initiative is being developed in collaboration with energy company Copec in northern Chile.
Details of the Purchase and Collaboration
Transelec signed an agreement with Chinese company Shenzhen Clou Electronics Co Ltd, securing over 130 20-foot-long containers that will provide a total storage capacity of 420 MWh. The system features liquid cooling for enhanced safety, a critical feature for optimal performance in the high-temperature conditions of northern Chile.
The first battery shipment is scheduled for July 2025, with the entire BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) expected to be fully operational by early 2026. This project represents a significant step forward for energy storage technology in Chile, aiming to integrate a higher share of renewable energy sources into the national energy system.
Integration with Granja Solar Solar Farm
The batteries will be integrated with the existing 123 MWp solar farm known as Granja Solar, located in the Tarapacá region. Copec, which acquired the solar farm in April this year, partnered with Transelec to jointly develop the Granja Solar BESS project under a BOOT model (Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer).
Under this model, Transelec will operate and manage the battery system for 20 years before transferring full ownership to Copec. This approach ensures long-term operational stability and effective risk management, which are critical for advanced technological projects of this scale.
Importance of the Project for Chile’s Energy Sector
The Granja Solar BESS project represents a major milestone in Chile’s sustainable energy transition. Combining large-scale energy storage with a solar farm will not only optimize the use of renewable energy but also enhance grid stability. The system will store excess energy produced during the day and release it during peak demand hours, addressing a key priority for reliable energy supply.
This initiative brings Chile closer to meeting its ambitious climate goals, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Through this collaboration, Transelec and Copec are setting a new benchmark for the energy sector in the region, showcasing how cutting-edge energy storage technologies can drive global energy transformation.
Source: renewablesnow.com